Advantages and Disadvantages of Sod Roofs

Green Home

• Sod roofs make homes greener by improving energy efficiency. They increase the insulation quality of roofs, decreasing winter heating and summer cooling requirements. These insulation properties also reduce sound, making the indoor environment quieter than in a standard home. Vegetation on sod roofs helps to purify the air. When air intake vents and windows are near or in the roof, the vegetation cleans air of particles and toxins before it enters the home.

Green City

• Green roofs provide air purification for the city as well as the home. A block of homes with sod roofs helps reduce pollution levels of the whole neighborhood. Sod roofs provide both mechanical and biological filtration of rainwater, reducing the need for storm water treatment. One of the greatest advantages of sod roofs for cities is the mitigation of the urban heat island. They also provide habitat for birds and invertebrates and attract pollinators.

Additional Function for Homes

• Green roofs are extensive or intensive, depending on their use and growing medium. Extensive green roofs are not typically occupied, have a very shallow growing medium, and require less maintenance. Intensive green roofs have a thicker layer of soil and require more maintenance such as mowing or plant care. Flat, or nearly flat, intensive green roofs can function as gardens or additional living space. They are more expensive because they must support a greater load and require more maintenance. Some uses for green roofs include an herb or vegetable garden or a dining area for summer meals.

Cost

• The main disadvantage of green roofs is that they are 30 percent to 60 percent more expensive than other roofs. Although their base structure is similar to standard roofs, there are additional costs associated with the growing medium and plants. For new homes, it may be possible to salvage the existing sod from the construction site for later installation on the roof, as was traditionally done. An advantage of sod roofs is that they have a longer lifespan than standard roofs. Because of their longer life and energy saving properties, owners are likely to recoup the extra costs over time.